Joint Replacement

Joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which parts of an arthritic or damaged joint are removed and replaced with a metal, plastic or ceramic device called a prosthesis. The prosthesis is designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint.

A joint is where the ends of two or more bones meet. There are different types of joints within the body. For example, the knee is considered a “hinge” joint, because of its ability to bend and straighten like a hinged door. The hip and shoulder are “ball-and-socket” joints, in which the rounded end of one bone fits into a cup-shaped area of another bone.

In many cases, joint pain is caused by damage to the cartilage that lines the ends of the bones either from arthritis, a fracture, or another condition. If nonsurgical treatments like medications, joint replacement may be another alternative. During the surgery, the damaged cartilage and bone is removed from your joint and replaced with prosthetic components that mimic the function of a healthy joint.

After the surgery and recovery period, most patients are able to perform daily activities more easily. Joint replacement can be expected to last for many years, providing patients with an improved quality of life that includes less pain, along with greater mobility and strength that would not have been possible without surgery.

Bone & Joint Clinic surgeons have helped countless patients return to their healthy and active lifestyles through joint replacement surgeries. Every Bone & Joint Clinic surgeon is board-certified. Our surgeons have specialized training in orthopedic surgery as well as subspecialty areas of orthopedic medicine. Our surgeons are qualified to perform joint replacement surgeries, and we also offer the specialized care patients need throughout their recovery.